What does the Bible say about the types of media Christians should consume?

Navigating the landscape of modern media can be a formidable task for Christians striving to live in accordance with biblical principles. The Bible, though written in a time devoid of the internet, television, and social media, offers timeless wisdom that can guide us in making discerning choices about the media we consume. The principles found within its pages can help us determine what is edifying and what might lead us away from a Christ-centered life.

The Call to Holiness

One of the foundational principles for Christians in all aspects of life, including media consumption, is the call to holiness. In 1 Peter 1:15-16, we read, "But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" This call to holiness is not limited to our actions but extends to our thoughts and the influences we allow into our lives. Media, in all its forms, has a profound impact on our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors.

Guarding the Heart

Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." The heart, in biblical terms, often represents the center of our will, emotions, and intellect. What we allow into our hearts through media can shape our desires and actions. Philippians 4:8 provides a helpful framework for evaluating media: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." This verse encourages us to focus on content that uplifts and aligns with godly virtues.

The Influence of Media

Media has the power to influence our worldview and shape our values. Romans 12:2 warns, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." This transformation and renewal of the mind involve being selective about the media we consume, ensuring it does not conform us to worldly standards but rather aligns us with God's will.

Avoiding Corrupting Influences

The Bible also speaks about avoiding corrupting influences. In Ephesians 5:11, Paul writes, "Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them." This can be applied to media that glorifies sin, promotes immorality, or leads us into temptation. Jesus, in Matthew 5:29-30, uses hyperbolic language to emphasize the seriousness of avoiding sin: "If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell." While not meant to be taken literally, this passage underscores the importance of removing sources of temptation, which can include certain types of media.

The Role of Discernment

Discernment is a crucial aspect of Christian living, especially in the context of media. Hebrews 5:14 describes mature believers as those "who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." This discernment comes from a deep understanding of Scripture and a close relationship with God. It involves prayerfully considering whether a particular piece of media aligns with Christian values and whether it helps or hinders our spiritual growth.

Engaging with Culture

While it is important to be cautious about the media we consume, Christians are also called to engage with the culture thoughtfully and redemptively. In John 17:15-18, Jesus prays for His disciples, saying, "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world." This passage highlights the balance between being in the world but not of it. Christians can engage with media in a way that seeks to understand and influence culture without compromising their values.

Practical Considerations

In applying these biblical principles to our media consumption, several practical considerations can be helpful:

1. Content Evaluation: Consider the themes, messages, and values presented in the media. Does it promote virtues like love, kindness, and justice, or does it glorify violence, greed, and immorality?

2. Time Management: Reflect on the amount of time spent consuming media. Ephesians 5:15-16 advises, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." Excessive media consumption can detract from time spent in prayer, Bible study, and service to others.

3. Community Accountability: Engage with fellow believers in discussions about media choices. Proverbs 27:17 states, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Accountability can help us make wiser choices and provide support in avoiding harmful media.

4. Parental Guidance: For those with children, it is essential to guide and monitor their media consumption. Proverbs 22:6 instructs, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." Providing age-appropriate, edifying content and discussing media critically can help children develop discernment.

Conclusion

The Bible provides timeless wisdom that can guide Christians in making discerning choices about the media they consume. By adhering to the principles of holiness, guarding the heart, avoiding corrupting influences, practicing discernment, and engaging thoughtfully with culture, believers can navigate the complex media landscape in a way that honors God and promotes spiritual growth. As we seek to glorify God in all aspects of our lives, let us remember the words of 1 Corinthians 10:31: "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."